Canada has recently updated its Post‐Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) rules, and frankly, it is pretty confusing—especially if you began a diploma or certificate. You know how sometimes the changes come quietly until they twist and hit you square in the forehead? This is that. These changes matter, and I think it will matter to you MORE if you keep reading this now—because plans and dreams might be impacted.
The field‐of‐study rule could really mix things up
As of June 25, 2025, Canada’s IRCC changed the field(s) of study a graduate may complete to qualify for a Post‐Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program. Now only fields of study in disciplines that are relation to labour shortages—like healthcare, education, skilled trades—meet eligibility. That means if you completed a diploma in something else, you could be losing that right to work post graduation.
Here's the thing—if you applied for your study permit before June 25, 2025, you get to keep your eligibility even though your program is removed. It's a bit confusing, but it was meant to protect the students who have already started. That grandfathering principle gives a little bit of comfort, but if you apply again after that date, you don't get to benefit from it.
It is just heartbreaking to think students may have been counting on the ability to work after they completed their studies and be told they are not qualified because of a simply have inadequate dates. It's like building your future and then one exception moves under your feet.
What makes this update different — and a bit tougher
This update isn’t just about crossing fields off a list. It’s a full swing:
- 119 new programs got added—including healthcare support, early childhood education, trades like plumbing and electrical.
- 178 programs got removed—many diploma or certificate tracks in commerce, arts, some tech.
- That leaves around 920 fields now eligible.
- There's no field‑of‑study rule for bachelor, master’s, or doctorate programs—only for non‑degree credentials.
- Even if your field gets removed after June 25, you’re still fine as long as your study permit was applied before that.
This feels like IRCC is trying to line things up with Express Entry priorities—boosting the workforce in in‑demand jobs. But also it shows that diploma students are now being held to a new standard. And if you already started, good—but if you plan to start now in the wrong field, you’re looking at a hard no for work rights after graduation.
Why are students feeling uneasy—and what to do next
Many students and new graduates are feeling spooked. A post on a Facebook group today said that they applied before the June 25 cutoff and feels relieved—they'll still get their PGWP. However, some students are scrambling to check if their program on its own is even eligible.
Here is what it looks like if you are a panicking student:
- You might have selected a program because you thought you could stay and work afterwards pending a few things of course. All of a sudden, that opportunity may fade away.
- If your diploma was in something like general business, or arts, check. That might be off the eligible list with the new system.
- If you are applying for your PGWP next week you may have to select a new course, super quickly.
- It is more than just about studying—it is about planning your future in Canada.
What might you consider doing? Speak to your DLI (the college/university). Ask the DLI directly if your program remains on the eligible list with today. If they don't think there are eligible programs still, consider changing. Banks are not going to just refund your tuition costs because a policy changes, but you can still provide yourself with favours and make the right decisions.
Bullet points: Quick checklist for you
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Applied for study permit before June 25, 2025? You’re safe.
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Plan to apply after June 25, 2025? Must check program map.
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Studying a degree? You’re in the clear.
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Doing a diploma/certificate in commerce/arts? Verify eligibility.
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Employer-Important Fields? Healthcare, education, trades.
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Passport valid for entire PGWP length? Renew if needed.
What people are saying on social media
On X (Twitter), IRCC reminded students today:
“Students who applied for a study permit BEFORE June 25, 2025, stay eligible for PGWP even if their field is removed.”
— @CitImmCanada
We’ve updated the list of eligible fields of study for post-graduation work permits. Learn more: https://t.co/yWYHATEq2S
— IRCC (@CitImmCanada) June 25, 2025
And over on Instagram, a student posted:
“Just got confirmation mine is safe — applied March 2025 😊”
These show relief for some, uncertainty for others. It’s real emotions right there—hope, worry, relief.
Why this matters for your future—and Canada’s
This isn’t just paperwork—it’s your future. If your post-study work permit disappears, it can mess up job plans, permanent residence pathway, partner’s open work permit... it’s a chain reaction.
At the same time, Canada needs workers in healthcare, trades, education. It’s trying to steer more international students into those fields. But it also risks shutting out students who already committed to other areas.
It’s a balancing act for IRCC. But for many, it's stressful—and sudden.
What you should do right now
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Check your program: Ask your school if it’s still on the list.
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Talk to an advisor: DLI advisers often know the full CIP code list.
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Switch if needed: Still in time? Move to an eligible program.
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Document your application date: Keep proof you applied before June 25, 2025.
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Plan ahead: Passport needs at least the full PGWP period left.
And honestly? Feel those emotions—because this is life-altering for a lot of people. But with quick moves, you might still land a good spot.
